arXiv:2609.00356
A Stable Aggregation Method for Quantum Federated Learning
Shanika Iroshi Nanayakkara, Shiva Raj Pokhrel
Abstract
Abstract—Quantum federated learning (QFL) enables clients to train quantum neural network (QNN) models without sharing private data. We find that aggregation in QFL is unstable under heterogeneous data, unreliable communication, variable fidelity, latency, and quantum hardware noise. Moreover, QFL is non-trivial to address because several QNN parameters are periodic angles, and Euclidean averaging often fails to capture the inherent dynamics. We develop a novel self-consistent midpoint aggregation method for the stable design and implementation of QFLs. We combine QoS-aware client weighting, circular parameter aggregation, and bounded midpoint-based update control. We perform several angular tests and experiments on IBM's real Quantum machines for validation, confirming our approach. Extensive evaluations and experiments on medical and financial datasets show improved stability, lower volatility, and competitive accuracy. Index Terms—Quantum federated learning, adaptive aggregation, geometry-aware aggregation, self-consistent midpoint, quality of service, angular aggregation, quantum neural networks.