Quantum computing faces big challenges for real world use
Entangled Futures: Quantum Computing's Potential and Challenges in Computer Science
Emerging Technologies
Summary
Quantum computers aim to solve problems that regular computers struggle with, but they are not simply faster in every way. The authors explain that today's quantum machines are small and error-prone, making practical uses difficult. Using quantum computers also means changing how we program and combine them with traditional computers. The paper offers a broad view of these challenges and possibilities for people who build software and computer systems.
What this means in practice
- •For software engineers: Design hybrid systems that combine quantum and classical computing workflows for applications currently limited by classical approaches.
- •For it infrastructure teams: Address integration challenges by adapting IT setups to support the demands of current and near-term quantum devices alongside classical platforms.
A position paper. It proposes an approach and reports no results.
Authors
Devki Nandan Jha, Jonte R. Hance, Tomasz Szydlo, Nick Chancellor, Omer F. Rana, Rajiv Ranjan
Abstract
Quantum computing represents a fundamental shift in computation, promising to solve problems currently intractable for classical computers. However, misconceptions persist; quantum computers are not universally faster, nor do they replace classical systems. Current Noisy Intermediate-Scale Quantum (NISQ) devices face significant challenges, including decoherence, high error rates, and limited scalability. Additionally, leveraging quantum systems requires rethinking traditional computing principles, adopting different programming models, and addressing the complexities of integrating quantum and classical workflows, making their practical use in computer science both demanding and non-trivial. This article provides a system-level perspective on quantum computing for computer scientists, software engineers, and IT professionals, examining its current capabilities, key architectural and software challenges, and potential paths toward quantum advantage in real-world applications within hybrid quantum-classical environments.