Quantum Networks Status and Prospects

Quantum networks promise accelerated development of a wide array of applications in several fields including secure communication, computing, quantum simulations, metrology, sensing etc. While quantum networks are still in their nascent stages of development, the different stages and the corresponding known applications of each of the stages are clearly identified, setting up a clear path for a large-scale quantum internet. Here we report our progress towards each of the stages including distribution of weak coherent states, generation and distribution of entangled states using fibers and free space as quantum channels and finally interfacing with hybrid species that are able to hold and process the quantum information. We present some of the key milestones that are achieved in this process including high clock rate time-bin quantum key distribution, high rate time-bin entanglement generation and distribution using ultra low loss fiber, low jitter synchronization of distant national labs, FNAL and ANL, and development of SNSPDs with high count rates and low jitter. We also discuss the development of different architectures needed for each of the above mentioned stages for a successful deployment in the field.