Classical-decisive quantum internet by integrated photonics
Yichi Zhang, Robert Broberg, Alan Zhu, Gushu Li, Li Ge, Jonathan M. Smith, Liang Feng
Abstract
Classical and quantum technologies have traditionally been viewed as orthogonal, with classical systems being deterministic and quantum systems inherently probabilistic. This distinction hinders the development of a scalable quantum internet even as the global internet continues expanding. We report a classical-decisive quantum internet architecture in which the integration of quantum information into advanced photonic technologies enables efficient entanglement distribution over a commercially deployed fiber network. On-chip precise synchronization between classical headers and quantum payloads enables dynamic routing and networking of high-fidelity entanglement guided by classical light. The quantum states are preserved through real-time error mitigation, relying solely on classical signal readout without disturbing quantum information. These classical-decisive features demonstrate a practical path to a scalable quantum internet using existing network infrastructure and operating systems.