Abstract: The present invention relates to a quantum computing device based on manipulating Majorana Zero Mode excitations (MZMs) in topological superconducting regions formed in a tapered nanowire or similar structure. The tapering of the NW structure results in the formation of discrete regions of topological superconductivity having MZMs at their end boundaries, and thereby facilitates establishing the MZMs without delicate tuning procedures. A quantum swap gate is provided, utilizing two such structures in contact and disposed orthogonally to one another. Applying a magnetic field selectively lengthens the region of one structure while shortening the region of the other, allowing voltage and magnetic field changes to manipulate and interchange the MZM quantum states of the two structures to effect the swap operation.