TL;DR: Quantum repeaters are the key enabling technology for long-distance quantum communication. They overcome the exponential signal loss in optical fibers by creating entanglement in segments and then 'sw
Quantum repeaters are the key enabling technology for long-distance quantum communication. They overcome the exponential signal loss in optical fibers by creating entanglement in segments and then 'swapping' entanglement to extend the range. Current demonstrations use quantum memories (trapped atoms, rare-earth crystals) but are not yet robust enough for field deployment. Error-corrected quantum repeaters would enable global quantum networking.
Type
Network infrastructure
Protocol
Entanglement swapping, quantum memory, error-corrected repeaters
Range
Required for >500 km quantum communication
Status
Laboratory demonstrations; not yet field-deployable