802.11x over long distances seems to be a pretty hot topic right now,
and I've been thinking of experimenting with it myself. I'm wondering
what constitutes "breaking" part 15 FCC rules which would put me under
part 97 rules, however, most threads seem to be moving off-topic
relatively quickly.

I am aware that certain channels in 11b fall under the amateur radio
spectrum, however, it seems that as soon as you step into part 97, any
and all means and methods of encryption are suddenly illegal, no?

If this is the case, my goal is to stay in part 15 rules so I can
maintain a shred of security. My goal is roughly 9 miles, which is
just over 14km.

There are two ways of increasing the distance of your link:
#1: boost your power (up to 1 watt) - this puts you inside part 97,
and therefore precludes the use of encryption.

#2: Use a high gain, directional antenna. This one I'm not sure about.
Would something like a cantenna or yagi of some sort also push me into
the amateur radio realm? If not, is it possible to get a connection at
that distance?

11a attenuates more quickly than 11b. Therefore, I'll use 11b to
increase the chances of success. How badly do obstacles (such as
trees) affect the signal? (my guess is pretty badly.

I do have an amateur radio license, but like I said, I'm interested in
maintaining a secure form of communication (Once I am legally ALLOWED
to use encryption, I believe I can achieve a level of security that
would be satisfactory.) therefore, I can't use the ham license to help
out with this one.

My main question, ultimately, is whether using a high gain,
directional antenna puts me under part 97. Also, if there are any
other methods I could use or things I'm not thinking of, please let me
know.

Finally, Are there any other ways anyone can think of to get a secure
digital connection over roughly 10 miles (~15km) without using an
existing infrastructure or having to lay any cable? (laying cable
would require lots of permits and permission, and using existing
infrastructure would cost money per month) So it would seem that using
radio is about the only way. Amateur radio is the only economically
feasable means of long distance radio communication, but the lack of
security precludes many uses that I'm interested in. (even if they
don't fit into the "spirit" of ham radio) Are there any arenas to
experiment with long distance, secure, digital radio modes?

thanks
73
mark