SareQuant: Towards a quantum-based communication network

TL;DR

The paper addresses how to evolve a regional NREN toward a secure, scalable Quantum Internet. It adopts a RFC 9340-guided analysis of I2Basque and outlines a staged plan to integrate QKD as the initial quantum capability. The findings indicate that I2Basque's topology and DWDM-enabled links are well-suited for end-to-end quantum connections and that QKD-based services are a practical first deployment within SareQuant. Together, the work offers a concrete roadmap for operationalizing quantum technologies in regional research networks and aligns with national and Basque quantum initiatives.

Abstract

This paper presents the SareQuant project, which aims to evolve the Basque NREN (National Research and Education Networks) into a quantum-based communication infrastructure. SareQuant focuses on the network design and on the integration of quantum technologies into real-world scenarios and applications. Therefore, this paper provides insights into the opportunities and challenges regarding the integration of quantum technologies, thus paving the way for a secure and advanced Quantum Internet.

Figures (2)

• Figure 1: Quantum Internet generic architecture.
• Figure 2: I2Basque network nodes and links