  Large-scale quantum networks with thousands of nodes require scalable network
protocols and physical hardware to realize. In this work, we introduce packet
switching as a new paradigm for quantum data transmission in both future and
near-term quantum networks. We propose a classical-quantum data frame structure
and explore methods of frame generation and processing. Further, we present
conceptual designs for a quantum reconfigurable optical add-drop multiplexer to
realize the proposed transmission scheme. Packet switching allows for a
universal design for a next generation Internet where classical and quantum
data share the same network protocols and infrastructure. In this new quantum
networking paradigm, entanglement distribution, as with quantum key
distribution, is an application built on top of the quantum network rather than
as a network designed especially for those purposes. For analysis of the
network model, we simulate the feasibility of quantum packet switching for some
preliminary models of quantum key and entanglement distribution. Finally, we
discuss how our model can be integrated with other network models toward a
realization of a quantum Internet.
