The networking giant Cisco announced on Friday it had developed a new quantum network designed to connect quantum computers over long distances. This technology could enable the creation of larger quantum computing systems by linking multiple machines into a single, powerful unit.
The system uses quantum entanglement to transmit data between computers without the delays and signal loss that affect traditional fiber-optic networks. Cisco’s solution is based on quantum repeaters, devices that extend the range of quantum signals by regenerating them at intermediate points.
According to Cisco, the network will allow quantum computers in different locations to operate as one. The company has tested the technology in lab conditions and plans to deploy a pilot version in the coming months.
Quantum computing remains in its early stages, with current systems limited by size and stability. Most quantum computers today have fewer than 100 qubits, the basic units of quantum information. Cisco’s approach could help overcome these limitations by distributing the workload across multiple machines.
Industry analysts say such networks are essential for the next phase of quantum computing. They allow researchers to scale up processing power without building entirely new machines. Cisco is not the only company working on this, but its solution is among the first to reach a practical testing stage.
Source: digi.no