Quantum Networking: Experiments, Simulation, and Standards for Scalable Infrastructure

IEEE Quantum Week - https://qce.quantum.ieee.org/2026/

Workshop Abstract—Quantum networking is rapidly advancing from laboratory demonstrations toward early deployment. Enabling technologies such as entanglement distribution, quantum memory, quantum repeaters, and quantum key distribution (QKD) are laying the groundwork for distributed quantum computing and ultra-secure communication. This workshop focuses on the experimental, computational, and standards-driven efforts required to transition from proof-of-principle systems to reliable infrastructure.

On the experimental side, we will examine photonic quantum links, memory-enabled nodes, and hardware platforms including superconducting circuits, trapped ions, neutral atoms, and solid-state defect centers. Key engineering challenges—characterization, loss mitigation, wavelength conversion for telecom compatibility, synchronization, and error management— will be addressed in the context of real-world deployments. Simulation plays a critical role in network design and validation.

We will generalize discussion of results that model decoherence, stochastic channel behavior, entanglement generation rates, and routing protocols under realistic noise conditions. Finally, the workshop will explore standards and interoperability, including link-layer protocols, classical-quantum integration, the control and management of quantum networks, performance metrics, and certification frameworks. Establishing shared terminology, interfaces, abstraction layers and benchmarks is essential for multi-vendor ecosystems and scalable quantum infrastructure.

By integrating experiments, simulation, and standards development, this workshop aims to accelerate the path toward robust and deployable quantum networks.

I. WORKSHOP SUMMARY

Attendees will learn how experimental platforms, realistic simulations, and emerging standards are used to inform each other and how they must align to enable scalable and interoperable quantum networking.

II. WORKSHOP OBJECTIVES

A. Short term objectives

The workshop aims to communicate the recent experimental and simulated results of quantum networking and discuss their role in informing international standards. The workshop will equip attendees with a clear, interdisciplinary framework for designing, simulating, and deploying resilient quantum network infrastructure. We aim to move participants beyond highlevel physics concepts into engineering realities of current hardware, the predictive power of simulation tools, and the necessary standardization required for interoperability.

B. Long term objectives

The workshop aims to develop a user community and future collaborations in quantum networking. Our long-term vision is to establish a self-sustaining working group dedicated to synthesizing real-world experimental data with standardized simulation artifacts, ultimately contributing to a practical roadmap for quantum network architecture that informs future IEEE, IETF and ITU-T standards development.