Preparation for the Certified Quantum Network Architect Exam
Where CQNE Training provides the engineering foundation for quantum networking, CQNA Architect Training develops the design competencies needed to deploy quantum networking solutions in enterprise and government environments. The curriculum covers end-to-end network design: evaluating and selecting QKD systems, integrating quantum-derived keys into existing security architectures, planning trusted-node and satellite-based deployments, and designing hybrid networks that combine QKD with PQC.
Who Should Take This Course
Network architects, security architects, telecommunications planners, systems engineers, and senior technical consultants responsible for designing and deploying quantum-secured communication infrastructure.
What You Will Learn
- Evaluate and select QKD systems for specific deployment requirements based on key rate, distance, form factor, and integration interfaces
- Design key management architectures that integrate quantum-derived keys with classical encryption infrastructure
- Plan metro-scale and long-haul QKD deployments including fiber and free-space links
- Design trusted-node networks with appropriate physical security and monitoring
- Evaluate satellite QKD architectures for intercontinental key distribution
- Design hybrid networks that combine QKD and PQC to provide layered security
- Produce network design documentation including threat models, architecture diagrams, and deployment specifications
Course Outline
Module 1 — QKD System Evaluation and Selection
Vendor comparison methodology. Performance benchmarks: key rate under realistic conditions versus published specifications. Distance performance with standard fiber. Integration interfaces: API access, key delivery protocols, network management. Total cost of ownership including infrastructure, installation, maintenance, and key management integration.
Module 2 — Key Management Architecture
How quantum-derived keys flow from QKD endpoints to encryption devices. Key lifecycle management: generation, distribution, storage, usage, and retirement. Key storage requirements and security considerations. Relay key management in trusted-node networks. Key management for different encryption use cases: link encryption, network-layer encryption, and application-layer encryption.
Module 3 — Trusted-Node Network Design
Deploying QKD beyond point-to-point range using physically secured intermediate nodes. Trust model: what must be assumed about each node. Physical security requirements. Key relay protocols. Network monitoring and tamper detection. Balancing security requirements with deployment cost. When trusted-node design is sufficient versus when entanglement-based approaches are necessary.
Module 4 — Satellite QKD Architecture
Overcoming terrestrial distance limits through free-space optical links. LEO versus GEO satellite tradeoffs. Ground station requirements. Key distribution protocols for satellite QKD. Atmospheric effects and their mitigation. Integration with terrestrial QKD networks. Current satellite QKD programs and their demonstrated capabilities.
Module 5 — Hybrid QKD-PQC Network Design
Designing networks that use both QKD and post-quantum cryptography. Where QKD provides advantages over PQC alone. Where PQC is sufficient without QKD. Layered security architectures that combine both approaches. Key management integration when quantum and post-quantum keys are used together. Cost-benefit analysis for hybrid versus PQC-only deployment.
Module 6 — Metro and Long-Haul Deployment Planning
Designing quantum networks for metropolitan areas: fiber routes, node placement, key capacity planning. Long-haul connections: trusted-node chains, satellite links, and hybrid approaches. Deployment phasing: starting with critical links and expanding. Integration with existing telecommunications infrastructure.
Module 7 — Network Security Architecture
Threat modeling for quantum networks. Security architecture documentation. Defense-in-depth applied to quantum networking. Monitoring and detection for quantum network attacks. Incident response for quantum network failures and security events. Compliance and audit considerations for quantum-secured communications.
Format and Delivery
This program is available online on-demand, live online, in person, and as private team training; current prices for each format are in the booking section below. Live online and in-person sessions include 180 days of access to the online on-demand course. Training format and exam format are independent: however you train, the exam is delivered through proctored assessment, online or at authorized testing centers.
Prerequisites
- Active CQNE — Certified Quantum Network Engineer certification
Pricing
| Option | Price |
|---|---|
| Online (self-paced) | US$2,499 |
| In-person (instructor-led) | US$3,499 |
| Online training + CQNA exam bundle | US$2,999 |
| In-person training + CQNA exam bundle | US$3,999 |
| Quantum Networking Path (CQNE + CQNA + both exams) online | US$4,499 |
All prices are in US dollars.