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How mature is quantum networking?

The SRI-managed QED-C highlights quantum networking in its latest report.

  • QED-C’s Quantum Networking Applications Roadmap provides a comprehensive picture of quantum networking. 
  • The report identifies 10 high-impact applications, estimates the performance requirements, analyzes the maturity of enabling technologies, and outlines commercial viability. 
  • This snapshot of quantum networking maturity is critical for researchers, government funders, private investors, and industry leaders. 
  • The SRI-managed Quantum Economic Development Consortium (QED-C®) released a new roadmap outlining the current state of quantum networking, pinpointing the breakthroughs that could bring the technology from the lab into the real world. 
  • Released to QED-C members on May 4, the Quantum Networking Applications Roadmap report is now available to the public. 

The broad dynamics of applied quantum networking, the report acknowledges, are widely understood: Leading-edge use cases like quantum key distribution and digital signatures are being commercialized, while other capabilities (like long-distance distributed quantum computing) may take a decade or more to achieve. 

There remain questions about how soon quantum capabilities — from clustered computing to position verification and distributed sensing — will be ready for commercial deployment. This new report provides expert-based insights.

A quantum network connects nodes to transmit information that incorporates quantum properties such as entanglement or superposition. The ability to send quantum bits (“qubits”) that encode quantum information enables applications that provide advantages or novel capabilities compared to classical technologies. In the future, that could mean stronger protection for sensitive financial, health, and security data; linking smaller quantum computers to tackle larger problems; and synchronizing clocks with extraordinary precision for applications such as navigation in GPS-denied environments. 

The roadmap identifies 10 high-impact applications across secure communications, quantum computing, and quantum sensing, then assesses how close each is to commercialization. It also points to several technologies that underpin many applications, including quantum repeaters, satellite infrastructure, and optical network switches. 

“As the quantum ecosystem scales, expert-based information about quantum networking maturity and the broad performance and technology requirements is invaluable for researchers, government funders, private investors, and industry leaders alike,” comments QED-C executive director Celia Merzbacher. “Our aim is to provide a practical guide for the individuals and organizations currently deciding how to accelerate the arrival of real-world quantum networks.”  

The future of quantum networking

With quantum networking, the next leap in how we communicate and secure information is making its way into the real world. 

Find the report on QED-C’s website here.

SRI is working to make the world more secure, connected,
and technologically competitive

We’ve developed precision quantum sensors, communications systems,
and the manufacturing foundations to move quantum out of the lab — and into the world.

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