Cisco Systems and IBM have joined forces to create a worldwide network of large‑scale, fault‑tolerant quantum computers that is expected to be operational in the early 2030s. The collaboration will deliver a proof‑of‑concept within five years, enabling multiple quantum processors to communicate over long distances and laying the groundwork for a quantum‑computing internet by the late 2030s.
The partnership combines IBM’s proven quantum‑hardware platform with Cisco’s quantum‑networking expertise. IBM will develop a Quantum Networking Unit (QNU) that interfaces with its quantum processors, while Cisco will design a quantum‑data‑center architecture and a high‑speed software protocol framework. Together they aim to build microwave‑optical transducers and a supporting software stack that can entangle qubits across separate cryogenic environments, a key technical hurdle for distributed quantum computing.
Strategically, the alliance positions both companies at the forefront of a nascent but rapidly growing market. By integrating quantum computing with advanced networking, Cisco and IBM can offer new capabilities for complex optimization, materials science, and secure communications—areas that could drive significant revenue growth in the long term. The partnership also signals to investors and talent that the firms are investing heavily in high‑risk, high‑reward technology that could redefine computing paradigms.
Jay Gambetta, Director of IBM Research, said, “By working with Cisco to explore how to link multiple quantum computers into a distributed network, we will pursue how to further scale quantum’s computational power.” The comment underscores IBM’s focus on scaling quantum capabilities through networking and highlights the collaborative nature of the effort.
Following the announcement, both companies’ shares experienced a modest uptick, reflecting investor enthusiasm for the strategic partnership. Analysts noted that the collaboration’s potential to accelerate quantum‑computing adoption and create a new market segment was a key driver of the positive reaction.
The long‑term vision is to establish a quantum‑computing internet that connects quantum computers, sensors, and communication systems on a planetary scale. While technical challenges—such as reliable transducers and entanglement protocols—remain, the partnership’s early‑stage proof‑of‑concept will provide critical insights and accelerate progress toward this ambitious goal.
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