Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently asked questions about quantum networks, quantum Internet, and quantum computing
FAQ
Is a quantum internet any good?
The quantum internet will initially be a combination of dozens or hundreds of quantum networks which are connected to one another. Quantum networks are multipurpose end-to-end entanglement-based networks which are inherently secure and will be used to securely connect sites to one another, scale quantum computers, and empower distributed quantum sensors.
What can quantum networks do?
Quantum networks are multipurpose end-to-end entanglement-based networks which are inherently secure and will be used to securely connect sites to one another, scale quantum computers, and empower distributed quantum sensors.
Do quantum networks exist?
Multipurpose quantum networks are in the early stages of development and deployment with research facilities, standards bodies, utility companies, and public sector entities building some of the first quantum networks.
Can quantum computers access the Internet?
Quantum computers can be accessed over the Internet via services such as AWS Braket. Multipurpose quantum networks will make accessing quantum computers over the Internet secure and safe by protecting data in transit and preventing man-in-the-middle attacks.
Is quantum a good investment?
Quantum networks, quantum computers, and quantum sensors will become an important technology in solving many of the world’s most complex problems and challenging issues. Quantum has the potential to transform pharmaceutical development, climate solutions, medical advances, supply chain performance, and technology breakthroughs to improve the way we live, work, and play.
Will quantum computers break banks?
Experts estimate that no later than 2030 quantum computers will be capable of breaking encryption algorithms and intercepting communications used by most organizations today including banks, healthcare, and businesses.[1] Given the complexity of upgrading these types of systems, organizations in need of secure network communication solutions should begin taking steps toward quantum-readiness now. Transformations of this magnitude require years of steady, focused implementation, but it’s hard to know what steps to take while the technology is still emerging. The good news is that by starting now you can stay ahead of the transformation and disruption that quantum computing will create as it reaches its full potential. [1] "11 Top Experts: Quantum Top Trends 2023 And 2030." Stephen Ibaraki. https://www.forbes.com/sites/stephenibaraki/2022/08/19/11-top-experts-quantum-top-trends-2023-and-2030/?sh=2a17751169f9
How many Bell pairs are required for each qubit in entanglement swapping? How many Bell pairs are needed for n qubits?
For each qubit, one would need one Bell pair. If one restricts the types of states you plan to send, you could, in principle, reduce the number of Bell pairs needed. But to teleport an arbitrary quantum state composed of n qubits, you will need n entangled Bell pairs.
How long is the entanglement maintained between two adjacent nodes? How does one maintain the entanglement?
The length of time that the entanglement lasts, once established, would usually be limited by the coherence time. The coherence time is specific to the type of qubit being used (where qubit examples include e.g., trapped ions, defect center in diamond, etc.) and refers to the amount of time before a specific type of noise called decoherence will destroy the quantum state on the qubit. However, the ratio of coherence time to operation and measurement time is more important than the absolute time, since short coherence times don't matter if you can do everything else you need to do very quickly!