At SuperComputing 2024 (SC24) in Atlanta, an international collaboration showcased a groundbreaking demonstration of distributed hybrid quantum computing secured by advanced post-quantum cryptography (PQC) and quantum key distribution (QKD). This global effort brought together partners from Europe and the USA, highlighting how quantum and classical computing systems can be integrated and secured on a world scale.
The Challenge and Opportunity of Quantum Computing
Quantum computing holds immense potential for solving complex problems in fields like chemistry, biology, meteorology, and financial systems—challenges beyond the reach of classical computing. However, the technology’s cost, sensitivity, and limited availability present hurdles to its widespread application. Moreover, quantum computing threatens the security of current encryption systems, raising the stakes for robust, future-proof solutions.
To address these challenges, the demonstration aimed to:
1. Combine quantum computing with classical resources to improve accessibility and cost-effectiveness.
2. Enable global distribution of these hybrid systems for broader researcher access.
3. Protect these systems and data against threats in a post-quantum cryptographic environment.
International Collaboration Driving Innovation
This demonstration was the result of an international partnership involving European organizations (PSNC, GÉANT, SURF/NetherLight) and U.S. institutions (Internet2, ESnet, ICAIR/Northwestern University, StarLight). Together, they built a transatlantic hybrid quantum-classical computing network connecting testbeds in Poznan, Poland, and Atlanta, USA, using live production networking infrastructure.
SURF and its NetherLight exchange played a pivotal role, enabling global connectivity alongside other major networks like GÉANT, Internet2, and SCinet. This collaborative approach leveraged expertise and resources from all partners to push the boundaries of what’s possible in quantum and classical computing integration.
Technical Breakthroughs and Secure Data Transmission
The demonstration showcased:
– Hybrid quantum-classical computing integration using Quantum Processing Units (QPUs), CPUs, and GPUs.
– High-speed data transmission over transatlantic links secured with PQC algorithms and QKD encryption.
– Advanced security measures, including DWDM services for long-distance encryption and QKD technology for local network data security.
This setup demonstrated the viability of a distributed quantum-classical infrastructure capable of supporting research use cases in fields like material science and optimization. By employing existing quantum computing systems with ~100 qubit capacity, the project advances the goal of achieving “quantum utility.”
A Model for Future Innovation
The SC24 demonstration underscores the power of international collaboration to solve complex challenges and drive technological breakthroughs. By integrating cutting-edge technologies and resources from diverse global partners, this project paves the way for the next generation of secure, distributed quantum computing infrastructure.
SURF and NetherLight’s participation exemplifies their commitment to advancing science and innovation through global partnerships. Together with other partners, they are demonstrating how collective efforts can unlock the potential of quantum computing for research and education worldwide.
The project was featured at SC24’s Network Research Exhibition, with a live presentation at the NRE Theatre, showcasing the transformative potential of distributed hybrid quantum computing.
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