Eurofiber and Delft Networks have successfully deployed an entanglement-ready dark fiber connection between Delft and Rotterdam in a closed loop configuration, creating a quantum fiber link for testing long-range quantum connections over existing deployed fiber. The infrastructure is designed to test and validate entanglement-based quantum networking across operational telecom networks and represents a step toward future quantum internet infrastructure.
The project combines Eurofiber’s fiber optic infrastructure with Delft Networks’ quantum networking expertise to prepare for the distribution of long-lived entangled states between quantum memories separated by metropolitan distances. The quantum fiber link also enables the partners to explore how existing telecom networks can be augmented to support quantum signals alongside conventional communications infrastructure.
Delft Rotterdam Loop Tests Quantum Network Performance
The Delft Rotterdam loop provides a real-world testbed for evaluating the performance, stability and scalability of entanglement distribution across operational fiber networks. The quantum fiber link is being used to examine practical challenges associated with deploying quantum technologies within existing carrier-grade infrastructure.
The project focuses on:
- Performance and stability of entanglement distribution
- Scalability across deployed fiber infrastructure
- Signal attenuation and synchronization
- Integration with operational telecom networks
Quantum entanglement enables the generation of correlations between distant nodes and provides a foundation for connecting quantum computers and sensors through networks. The technology can support applications including distributed quantum computing, ultra-precise sensing and time synchronization using quantum clocks.
“Our project demonstrates how existing fiber infrastructure can evolve to support the next generation of quantum technologies.” said Marc Hulzebos, Innovation manager at Eurofiber. “By combining classical and quantum networking capabilities, we are preparing our infrastructure for a future where quantum devices become integral to communication and computation.”
Collaboration Advances Deployment Ready Quantum Networking
Delft Networks is contributing its quantum networking expertise to the deployment, with the quantum fiber link providing an environment to better understand practical constraints involved in moving quantum networking from research and development toward scalable deployment.
The collaboration is examining how quantum connections can operate across existing telecom infrastructure while maintaining the requirements needed for reliable entanglement distribution. The deployment is intended to help bridge experimental quantum systems and carrier-grade network environments.
Key areas of the collaboration include:
- Testing entanglement distribution across metropolitan distances
- Evaluating performance and network stability
- Addressing integration challenges within operational telecom infrastructure
- Supporting the development of scalable quantum networks
“Deploying entanglement over operational telecom networks allows us to understand and address practical constraints and accelerate the transition from R&D to scalable deployment.” Ronald Hanson, CEO of Delft Networks, adds.
The project is supported by funding from QDNL Delft’s Regional Quantum Program, involving the Province of South Holland, Metropoolregio Rotterdam Den Haag and the municipalities of Delft, Leiden, Rotterdam and The Hague. The quantum fiber link provides a practical environment for evaluating how existing fiber infrastructure can support the development of quantum communication technologies.