The Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) is advancing standards for quantum technologies through its Quantum Internet Research Group (QIRG). This group is currently developing architectural frameworks to design future quantum networks, while parallel efforts focus on migrating telecom infrastructure to quantum-resistant cryptography to protect against emerging security threats. These discussions aim to ensure the Internet remains secure and functional as quantum capabilities grow.
The standards are currently in the development and review phase, with recent meetings held in Madrid and Shenzhen during 2025 and 2026. To support these initiatives, the IETF plans to launch new publishing tools in May 2026, streamlining how these technical documents are edited and made available to the global community. The ultimate goal is to establish open protocols that facilitate the integration of quantum networking into existing internet infrastructure.
Source: https://www.ietf.org/blog/ietf123-new-topics/
Keywords: quantum-resistant cryptography, quantum networks, RFC standards
