A Typology of Quantum-Classical Faults

Conference · Sun Jun 01 04:00:00 EDT 2025

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1109/DSN-W65791.2025.00060· OSTI ID:3002254

Giusto, Edorado ^[1]; Núñez-Corrales, Santiago ^[2]; Cilardo, Alessandro ^[1]; Mazzocca, Nicola ^[1]; Humble, Travis ^[3]

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1. University of Naples Federico II, Italy
2. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign,
3. ORNL

This paper introduces an extended taxonomy of faults specific to hybrid quantum-classical systems, addressing the unique challenges that arise from integrating quantum accelerators into high-performance computing (HPC) infrastructures. Building on the foundational fault classification by Avizienis et al., we incorporate fault types unique to quantum computing-such as qubit decoherence, spontaneous gate errors, and photon loss-alongside traditional and human-induced faults including development errors, operational mistakes, and malicious attacks. Our taxonomy classifies faults by their origin (natural vs. human-made), intent (accidental, deliberate non-malicious, or malicious), system boundaries (internal vs. external), and persistence (transient to permanent). We also explore how different architectural integration patterns-ranging from tight coupling to loose on-premise and cloud-based configurations-shape the manifestation and propagation of faults. These scenarios are analyzed in terms of timing mismatches, interface inconsistencies, and security threats such as data tampering and denial-of-service attacks. Through this fault-centric lens, we aim to support the co-design of dependable quantum-classical systems and highlight the critical role that integration strategies play in ensuring reproducibility, resilience, and security across hybrid computing platforms.

• Research Organization: Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), Oak Ridge, TN (United States)
• Sponsoring Organization: USDOE
• DOE Contract Number: AC05-00OR22725
• OSTI ID: 3002254
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English