When users get access to quantum physics-powered-computers over the Internet, it is quantum computing in the cloud. Read to learn more about the cloud's role, challenges, and more in quantum computing!
Quantum computing is among the many rising technologies that are disrupting industries. According to research, quantum computing will impact businesses in ways similar to that of artificial intelligence and machine learning. Not to mention, when users get access to quantum physics-powered computers over the Internet, it is quantum computing in the cloud.
Role Of The Cloud In Quantum Computing
Although quantum computing and its components are still being worked on and its connection with cloud computing is still unchartered, cloud computing still impacts quantum computing in some ways. Cloud computing enters the quantum realm with the attempt to make it more accessible and may be available for mass use someday.
The first role of the cloud in quantum computing is to provide application development and test environments for developers to simulate the use of quantum computers through standard computing resources.
The second is to offer access to the few quantum computers that are currently available, in the way mainframe leasing was standard a generation ago. This improves the financial viability of quantum computing since multiple users can increase machine utilization.
Challenges To Quantum Computing In The Cloud
Caution is key when developers work with applications that involve sensitive data. So, opting for the cloud over on-premise quantum hardware can be challenging for some.
When utilizing public cloud resources, a machine may not be readily available when a quantum developer wants to submit a job through quantum services.
Although some cloud providers offer quantum cloud services, their use cases are not yet commonplace. There is still a lot of development than needs to be done before we have a commercially available quantum computer.
One particular issue is that there aren't enough applications that can harness the power of qubits. Therefore, currently, we cannot come up with applications that will drive the use of quantum computing in the cloud, but it is a possibility in the future.
Can Quantum Computing Be Open Sourced?
Quantum computing has faced hurdles when it comes to making it accessible for industrial-scale applications. Pooling resources to make this goal a reality is a good shot and, guess what, Quantum Open Source Foundation is doing exactly that! Tapping into the potential of interested parties, the QOSF is pushing the expansion of open source software in quantum computing.
