Quantum computing, decoded.

Qubits, superposition, entanglement — the essentials of quantum computing, explained simply and clearly to help you get started.

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WHAT IS QUANTUM?

Classical computers store information as bits — a strict 0 or 1. Quantum computers use qubits, which can exist in a superposition of both states at once, and can be entangled so that qubits become correlated no matter how far apart they are.

By manipulating these quantum properties with precisely tuned operations called quantum gates, we can explore many possibilities simultaneously — unlocking new approaches to chemistry, optimization, cryptography, and machine learning.

It isn't magic, and it doesn't replace classical computers. It's a fundamentally different way of processing information, built on the strange rules that govern the universe at its smallest scale.

Core Domains in Quantum

Quantum science spans a handful of distinct, connected fields

Quantum Physics & Theory

Quantum Physics & Theory

The foundational principles — wave functions, uncertainty, and the mathematics that govern the quantum world.

Quantum Sensing & Metrology

Quantum Sensing & Metrology

Harnessing quantum precision to measure time, gravity, and fields far beyond classical limits.

Quantum Computing

Quantum Computing

Programming qubits and quantum circuits to tackle problems classical computers struggle with.

Quantum Information

Quantum Information

Exploring superposition, measurement, and the paradoxes that make quantum mechanics so strange.

Key Concepts

Ten ideas that take you from "what's a qubit?" to the quantum era

01 / 10

Meet the Qubit

What makes a quantum bit different?

A classical bit is always a strict 0 or 1. A qubit — built from a superconducting circuit, a trapped ion, or a photon — is governed by quantum mechanics instead, giving it abilities no classical bit has, like superposition and entanglement.

bell_state.py
from qiskit import QuantumCircuit
 
qc = QuantumCircuit(2)
qc.h(0) # put q0 in superposition
qc.cx(0, 1) # entangle q0 with q1
qc.measure_all()
 
print(qc.draw())

A real Qiskit snippet — hit Run to see the circuit it builds.

GETTING STARTED

Ready to go beyond theory? The best way to learn quantum computing is to write and run real quantum circuits.

Start with IBM Quantum Learning for guided courses, spin up your first circuit on the IBM Quantum Platform, and follow along with Qiskit's documentation as you build.

Then join us at Qiskit Fall Fest Nairobi — our workshops walk you through every step, from your first qubit to your first quantum program.

Inside a Quantum Computer

The IBM Quantum cryostat — cooling qubits colder than outer space

This interactive experience needs a larger screen — view it on a tablet, laptop, or desktop.

Quantum Chip
~10 mK

Mixing Chamber

Colder than deep space. This is the coldest point in the fridge — home to the quantum processor itself.

Hover or tap a stage on the diagram to explore the fridge.