DeSQribe: Design and Synthesize Quantum Network Interoperable Protocols for Entanglement Distribution

The Quantum Internet architecture and its associated functionality are far from being standardized. Furthermore, the protocol stack that implements the abovementioned functionality is still under development. In this work, we present a framework to DEsign and Synthesize Quantum netwoRk InteroperaBle protocols for Entanglement distribution (DeSQribe), a novel iteration of the Software-Defined Networking (SDN) paradigm. DeSQribe introduces a methodology to define and implement arbitrary entanglement distribution and distillation protocols. Distinct from adaptations of existing SDN solutions to quantum networks, DeSQribe tackles quantum-specific challenges, such as the dual nature of a data plane that accommodates classical messages and quantum states. DeSQribe defines a protocol as an ordered sequence of processing units that manipulate quantum states and exchange classical messages. This high modularity encourages software reusability. A centralized controller leverages DeSQribe and dynamically orchestrates protocols on network devices. Finally, DeSQribe's technology-agnostic nature assures seamless integration across diverse quantum technologies. We showcase how to implement and combine entanglement distribution protocols of very different natures (e.g., connectionless, connection-oriented) with DeSQribe, proving its flexibility and timeliness.