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Cisco is developing high-fidelity quantum networks in collaboration with IBM, focusing on networking while IBM handles computing. Currently, quantum computers lack networking capabilities, with some point-to-point connections established but no true networks.

Cisco aims to overcome challenges similar to those faced by classical computing in the 1960s. The company has introduced an entanglement chip that operates without refrigeration, enabling connections over telecom fiber wavelengths up to 100 kilometers apart.

Quantum networking requires classical protocols, but data transmission differs from classical methods, relying on entangled particles. Challenges include the fragility of entanglement and distance limitations, necessitating quantum repeaters for longer connections. Cisco and IBM anticipate achieving networked distributed quantum computing by the early 2030s.