The Quantum Internet: The Foundations and Challenges of Future-Proof Communication

As quantum computers advance rapidly, traditional encryption methods are becoming vulnerable, making it essential to explore fundamentally new communication technologies such as the quantum internet. The quantum internet is a revolutionary technology that uses the principles of quantum mechanics to transmit data securely and quickly. Unlike classical networks, quantum networks use quantum entanglement and quantum key sharing (QKD), thus providing a higher level of security against future cyber threats. This article presents the technological foundations of the quantum internet, the architecture of quantum networks, and the infrastructure challenges, including quantum repeaters and network scaling. We also discuss industrial applications of the quantum internet, with a focus on the financial, government, and healthcare sectors. The quantum internet is still under development, but it is expected to become a new standard for communication in the coming decades. The study highlights the technological readiness and practical potential of the quantum internet, pointing to a secure and scalable future in communication networks.