Architecture and Protocol Designs of an Entanglement-Based Quantum Internet

Two-way quantum networks are communication infrastructures that rely on entanglement distribution to enable transmission of quantum information. Utilizing quantum teleportation, they transfer quantum bits (qubits) across distances by consuming entangled states. The research objective of this dissertation is to design and evaluate core protocols and architectures for two-way quantum networks. Furthermore, it explores how to leverage classical networking principles to meet the unique demands of quantum systems. Integrating theoretical modeling, engineering techniques, and simulation, we design protocols for entanglement distribution and resource management to provide scalability and resilience in connection-oriented (resource reserving) and connectionless (best-effort) network architectures. Simulations are pivotal in evaluating protocol performance when analytical solutions are unavailable, such as when accurate quantum noise models with decoherence effects are required. This multifaceted approach ensures protocol designs that are theoretically grounded and empirically validated. Key findings of this research include the development of novel architectures and protocols tailored for entanglement-based quantum networks. Regarding connection-oriented settings, we present a configurable entanglement distribution protocol that adapts swapping and distillation policies to varying network conditions, thereby balancing entanglement fidelity —a critical quality metric— with resource limitations. We also introduce a resource allocation algorithm that optimizes the management of quantum resources by trading off max-min fairness and network utility. Concerning connectionless settings, we formulate a best-effort quantum network architecture based on packet-switching, akin to the classical Internet. Such reframing allows us to exploit the many tools and protocols available and well-understood within the Internet. For illustration, we adapt classical congestion control and active queue management protocols within an architecture where quantum end nodes manage demands; intermediate nodes instead optimize resource utilization. Finally, we propose a framework to prototype entanglement distribution protocols that naturally supports classical messaging and quantum operations. We use this framework to demonstrate how connectionless and connection-oriented protocols could coexist on the same quantum network.