OSI Stack Redesign for Quantum Networks: Requirements, Technologies, Challenges, and Future Directions
Abstract
Quantum communication is emerging as a foundation for next-generation networks, offering unprecedented capabilities in security, entanglement-based connectivity, and distributed computation. However, the classical Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model, designed for deterministic, error-tolerant systems, is incompatible with quantum phenomena such as decoherence, probabilistic entanglement, and the no-cloning theorem. This paper surveys and redefines the OSI model for quantum networking in the context of 7G systems. We propose a Quantum-Converged OSI stack by extending the classical seven-layer model with two additional layers: (i) Layer 0, the Quantum Substrate, responsible for entanglement management, coherence preservation, and teleportation; and (ii) Layer 8, the Cognitive Intent Plane, which enables AI- and QML-driven orchestration. The survey synthesizes over 150 research works published between 2018 and 2025, classifying them by OSI layer, enabling technologies (e.g., Quantum Key Distribution, Quantum Error Correction, and Post-Quantum Cryptography), and application domains such as satellite quantum links, quantum IoT, and federated edge systems. We further provide a taxonomy of cross-layer enablers and discuss simulation tools, including NetSquid, QuNetSim, and QuISP. Finally, an evaluation framework with quantum-native metrics, such as entropy throughput, coherence latency, and entanglement fidelity, is introduced, along with open challenges for programmable…
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