Quantum communication takes advantage of the unique quantum properties of information carriers in the communication link and enables the system to greatly exceed classical capabilities. In the 1980s, the first application of quantum communication - quantum cryptography - was proposed and demonstrated. Since then, an acceleration towards the development of Quantum Networks and, ultimately, the Quantum Internet, has been underway with significant developments in the technological, commercial and legislative arenas. This talk will provide an overview of the development of quantum communications and networks from quantum key distribution through quantum repeaters and towards the quantum internet. Also discussed will be the important related research fields of some of the key components of a quantum communication system, such as photon sources, single photon detectors and quantum memories. Finally, there is a brief introduction to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) quantum communication project and a new testbed for quantum networks on the NIST Gaithersburg campus called the Platform for Quantum Network Innovation (PQNI).
