IBM and Cisco Plan Quantum Computing Network
- Partnership explores distributed systems for future quantum internet
IBM and Cisco have announced plans to collaborate on building a distributed quantum computing network, aiming for realization in the early 2030s. The initiative combines IBM’s expertise in quantum hardware with Cisco’s innovations in quantum networking. Together, the companies intend to scale fault-tolerant quantum computers beyond IBM’s current roadmap. They also hope to address fundamental challenges that could lead to the creation of a quantum computing internet.
Proof-of-Concept by 2030
Within five years, IBM and Cisco aim to demonstrate a proof-of-concept network linking large-scale quantum computers. This setup would allow computations across tens of thousands of qubits, enabling trillions of quantum gates for complex applications. Potential uses include solving optimization problems and designing advanced materials or medicines. Achieving this will require new technologies such as microwave-optical transducers and specialized software stacks.
Cisco has outlined a vision for a quantum data center architecture that preserves fragile quantum states and synchronizes operations with sub-nanosecond precision. The system would distribute entanglement resources and enable teleportation between quantum computers. IBM plans to develop quantum networking units (QNUs) to interface with quantum processing units (QPUs), converting stationary quantum information into transferable “flying” qubits. Cisco’s protocols will dynamically reconfigure network paths to distribute entanglements as needed.
Scaling Across Distances
The companies are exploring how to transmit qubits over longer distances, such as between buildings or data centers. Optical-photon and microwave-optical technologies are being considered for integration into quantum networks. Linking multiple QPUs across sites could form the foundation of a scalable quantum internet. This approach would allow workloads requiring high-performance computing resources to be handled within a quantum-centric supercomputing framework.
IBM is also collaborating with the Superconducting Quantum Materials and Systems Center (SQMS), led by Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory. Together, they plan to test multiple connected QPUs within three years. The partnership highlights the importance of combining industrial and academic research. Such collaborations are expected to accelerate progress toward distributed quantum computing.
Toward a Quantum Internet
A distributed quantum network could expand computational capacity exponentially. By the late 2030s, this vision may evolve into a quantum internet connecting computers, sensors, and communication systems across regions and eventually worldwide. Applications could include ultra-secure communications and precise monitoring of climate, weather, and seismic activity. IBM and Cisco also plan to co-fund academic projects to strengthen the broader quantum ecosystem.
The concept of a quantum internet is not limited to computing. Researchers envision networks where quantum sensors share data across distances, enabling breakthroughs in environmental monitoring and navigation. This suggests that quantum networking could impact fields far beyond traditional computing.
