A framework for quantum controlled teleportation in multi-hop networks: noise analysis and IBMQ evaluation

Abstract Multi-hop quantum teleportation is a fundamental technique for enabling scalable, long-distance quantum communication, making it a key building block for future quantum networks. In this paper, we present a generalized multi-hop quantum controlled teleportation (MQCT) protocol that enables more flexible transfer across complex network architectures. We perform a detailed analysis of the protocol’s performance under realistic noise conditions, focusing on the impact of various noise sources on both the teleportation process and the underlying quantum channels. To assess its practical performance, we implemented the protocol on an IBM quantum (IBMQ) computer. The experimental results demonstrate the feasibility of the protocol in near-term quantum devices and provide valuable insights into its behavior under real-world quantum noise, paving the way for more reliable quantum communication systems.