IBM and Cisco Plan Quantum Computing Network

New collaboration plans to unite strengths of both leaders to design a connected network of large-scale, fault-tolerant quantum computers, targeted by early 2030s
Companies plan to deliver an initial demonstration of multiple networked quantum computers within five years
Distributed quantum network could lay groundwork towards quantum computing internet defined by quantum computers, sensors, and communication in the late 2030s

IBM and Cisco have announced plans to collaborate on building a distributed quantum computing network, with the first proof-of-concept expected by 2030. The initiative combines IBM’s expertise in quantum hardware with Cisco’s innovations in quantum networking. Together, the companies aim to scale large-scale, fault-tolerant quantum computers beyond IBM’s current roadmap. Their long-term vision includes laying the foundation for a quantum computing internet by the late 2030s.

Scaling Quantum Systems

The collaboration will focus on linking multiple quantum computers into a single network capable of handling computations across tens of thousands of qubits. Such a system could support trillions of quantum gates, enabling transformative applications in optimization, materials science, and medicine. Achieving this requires new technologies, including microwave-optical transducers and advanced software stacks. IBM and Cisco plan to entangle qubits across separate cryogenic environments as part of their initial demonstration.

Cisco’s vision for a quantum data center introduces infrastructure designed to preserve fragile quantum states and synchronize operations with sub-nanosecond precision. This architecture would allow teleportation of quantum information between machines. IBM intends to develop quantum networking units (QNUs) to interface with quantum processing units (QPUs), converting stationary quantum data into “flying” qubits for transmission. Cisco’s protocols will dynamically reconfigure network paths to distribute entanglements as needed.

Building the Quantum Internet

Beyond connecting machines within a single facility, the companies plan to explore transmitting qubits across longer distances, such as between data centers. Optical-photon and microwave-optical technologies will be investigated to enable reliable quantum communication. Linking multiple QPUs across sites could form the groundwork for a scalable quantum internet. This network would support workloads requiring integration with high-performance computing resources in a quantum-centric supercomputing framework.

IBM is also working with the Superconducting Quantum Materials and Systems Center (SQMS), led by Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory. Together, they plan to demonstrate multiple connected QPUs within three years. The collaboration highlights the importance of partnerships between industry and research institutions in advancing quantum technologies. Cisco and IBM also intend to co-fund academic projects to strengthen the broader quantum ecosystem.

Future Applications

A distributed quantum computing network could open new possibilities across science and industry. Ultra-secure communications, advanced climate modeling, and precise monitoring of seismic activity are among the potential applications. By connecting quantum computers, sensors, and communication systems, the vision of a quantum internet could become reality. The companies believe this approach will expand computational capacity exponentially.