IBM and Cisco Forge Partnership to Build Quantum Networking Infrastructure

Details

• IBM has unveiled an ambitious roadmap to interconnect quantum computers, aiming to build a quantum computing internet that moves beyond isolated systems toward distributed, quantum-centric supercomputing.
• The initiative features key collaborations with Cisco for developing long-distance optical transducers and links, as well as partnerships with Fermilab's Superconducting Quantum Materials and Systems Center and four of the five National Quantum Initiative Strategic Research centers.
• IBM is crafting quantum networking units (QNUs) designed to transform static qubits into photons—enabling interconnection across short, medium, and long distances through l-couplers, intermediate couplers, and long-distance transducers.
• This networking strategy leverages IBM’s prior modular quantum processor work, including Crossbill and Flamingo, and supports their roadmap milestones: Starling (200 logical qubits, 100 million gates) by 2029, and Blue Jay (2,000 logical qubits, 1 billion gates) by 2033.
• The first major goal is to entangle cryogenically separated quantum processors within five years, paving the way for larger quantum datacenters and applications such as networked quantum sensing in fields like gravitational-wave detection.

Impact

IBM’s networking vision marks a decisive turn from standalone quantum computers toward scalable, distributed architectures required for practical quantum advantage. Working with Cisco brings vital networking expertise to the table and signals industry readiness for future quantum infrastructure. This move could give IBM an edge in shaping standards and capturing early opportunities in the emerging quantum internet landscape.