InterQnet is a multidisciplinary project led by Argonne National Laboratory, with collaborators from the University of Chicago, Northwestern University, UIUC, and Fermilab. InterQnet seeks to advance scalable quantum communications through a comprehensive approach that improves devices, error handling, and network architecture. InterQnet has a two-pronged strategy to address scalability challenges: InterQnet-Achieve focuses on practical realizations of heterogeneous quantum networks by building and then integrating first-generation quantum repeaters with error mitigation schemes and centralized automated network control systems. The resulting system will enable quantum communications between two heterogeneous quantum platforms through a third type of platform operating as a repeater node. InterQnet-Scale focuses on a systems study of architectural choices for scalable quantum networks by developing forward-looking models of quantum network devices, advanced error correction schemes, and entanglement protocols.
The InterQnet goals are supported by three tightly integrated technical thrusts: (1) Heterogeneous Devices, which develops and aligns physical-layer capabilities; (2) Error Management, which explores quantum error mitigation and correction strategies for communication; and (3) Network Architecture and Protocols, which designs and evaluates control and coordination across diverse topologies. Simulations are grounded in experimental measurements and conducted by using SeQUeNCe, a modular simulation framework developed by the team to support device-aware, protocol-driven architectural studies.