IBM and Cisco have unveiled plans to jointly advance the development of distributed quantum computing networks.
The initiative aims to connect large-scale, fault-tolerant quantum computers, with the companies targeting an initial proof-of-concept demonstration by the end of 2030.
According to the companies, the collaboration will focus on linking quantum computers in distinct environments using new types of connections, including microwave-optical transducers and supporting software.
The two technology firms propose to combine IBM’s experience in constructing quantum systems with Cisco’s research into quantum networking infrastructure.
Their stated objective is to facilitate computations involving tens to hundreds of thousands of qubits and potentially trillions of quantum gates, which are central to applications such as optimisation problems and the simulation of complex materials.
Within five years, IBM and Cisco plan to show how several large-scale quantum computers can operate as a networked system.
They also aim to address technical challenges involved in transmitting qubits over extended distances, such as between buildings or separate data centres.
This would necessitate exploring optical-photon and microwave-optical transducer technologies to transfer quantum information across a network.
IBM has outlined its intention to develop a quantum networking unit (QNU) that would serve as an intermediary between stationary quantum information in a quantum processing unit (QPU) and mobile quantum data transmitted through the network.
IBM Research and IBM Fellow director Jay Gambetta said: “At IBM, our roadmap includes plans to deliver large-scale, fault-tolerant quantum computers before the end of the decade.
“By working with Cisco to explore how to link multiple quantum computers like these together into a distributed network, we will pursue how to further scale quantum’s computational power.”
For its part, Cisco is working on a software protocol framework capable of dynamically reconfiguring network paths so entanglements can be efficiently distributed among QNUs, allowing for coordinated quantum computations.
Both companies are investigating how network bridges made up of new hardware components and open-source software could use Cisco network nodes to link IBM QPUs within a data centre, and eventually between multiple centres.
This approach is seen as forming the foundation for what could become a “quantum computing internet”.
Outshift by Cisco senior vice president and general manager Vijoy Pandey said: “IBM is building quantum computers with aggressive roadmaps for scale-up, and we are bringing quantum networking that enables scale-out.
“Together, we are solving this as a complete system problem, including the hardware to connect quantum computers, the software to run computations across them, and the networking intelligence that makes them work.”
IBM is also collaborating with the Superconducting Quantum Materials and Systems Center (SQMS), led by Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory, as part of its participation in four of the US Department of Energy’s National Quantum Information Science Research Centers.
IBM and SQMS are preparing for an initial demonstration involving multiple connected QPUs within three years, focusing on integrating many QNUs within quantum data centres.
Looking further ahead, both companies expect that a distributed and scalable quantum computing network could expand computational capacity exponentially.
Such infrastructure may enable new forms of technology connecting quantum computers, sensors, and communication systems across metropolitan or global distances.
According to IBM and Cisco, potential uses include secure communications or enhanced monitoring capabilities for climate, weather, and seismic activities.
Recently, IBM announced the reduction of its workforce by a low single-digit percentage this quarter as it continues to transition towards software and AI-driven services, as per a Bloomberg report.
