Cisco is entering the quantum computing networking ring with a lab and prototype processor.
The move is notable since Cisco is a networking giant in the enterprise. In addition, quantum networking has been seen as a key piece of infrastructure. IonQ has highlighted the promise of quantum networking with acquisitions. However, it’s likely that your quantum vendors will be familiar since they are also in data centers.
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Cisco said its quantum networking chip prototype was developed with UC Santa Barbara and generates up to 1 million entangled photo pairs per second at room temperature. The chip also features telecom compatibility so may be of use to classical computing too.
Other things to note:
- The prototype has energy efficiency under 1mW.
- Fidelity up to 99%.
- The Cisco Quantum Lab will create networking components including quantum entanglement source chip and quantum switches with academic partners.
In a blog post, Vijoy Pandey, Senior Vice President, Outshift by Cisco, said quantum networking could accelerate quantum applications. He added that Cisco has more prototypes on deck including a distributed quantum computing compiler, Quantum Network Development Kit (QNDK) and Quantum Random Number Generator (QRNG).
"More components of our quantum data center infrastructure roadmap will be announced soon as we complete our vision of the quantum networking stack. In parallel, Cisco teams are implementing Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) NIST standards across our portfolio, ensuring classical networks remain secure in a post-quantum world," he said.
Pandey added that Cisco is looking to develop quantum networking for quantum computing as well as classical computing for immediate benefits. He also said that Cisco is building a vendor-agnostic framework to work with any technology. Quantum computing vendors range from approaches based on superconducting, ion trap and neutral atom approaches. "We don't need to pick winners among quantum computing platforms because we're building the networking fabric that will enable all of them to scale," said Pandey.
Constellation Research analyst Holger Mueller said:
"Cisco wants to be the network supplier in the quantum age beyond its mainstream networking technology. Cisco has developed networking technology that has to be quantum proof and safe and is now looking inside quantum machines. Cisco has its set of challenges, so it is a welcome change to see the network giant moving into new innovation fields."
Here's a look at Cisco's strategy.
