IBM and Cisco collaborate on network for quantum computers

IBM and Cisco are developing the groundwork for networked distributed quantum computing. The companies aim to demonstrate a proof-of-concept in 2030, in which multiple large-scale quantum computers reinforce each other.

Connecting quantum computers requires complex technology. Qubits from different quantum computers must be entangled while they are in separate cryogenic environments. IBM will build a Quantum Networking Unit (QNU) for this purpose. This unit acts as an interface for the Quantum Processing Unit (QPU) and converts stationary quantum information into “flying” quantum information.

Cisco is developing a quantum network vision for data centers that distributes entanglement between QNUs. The company is developing a software protocol that dynamically reconfigures networks to distribute entanglement when partial calculations are complete. Microwave-optical transducers should enable the transport of quantum information over longer…