No, this is not rated for .223/5.56. Level IIIA armor is not rated for rifle, you would need a full Level III armor, or level IV.
I saw one video that said 10 shots from a 44 mag or 9mm
We suggest replacement within 4 years of purchase, which could be increased or decreased based on care (ex. moisture).
The manufacturer has not provided that information even on their own site. We recommend contacting them directly, they should be able to answer that question for you. You can reach them here: https://guarddog-security.com/contact-us
The armor part itself will provide minimal protection against edged weapons, however any harder objective inside like a notebook, textbook, or laptop would increase that protection.
It will depend, multiple strikes to different parts of the armor should be fine, but multiple strikes to the same point would not.
The manufacturer has not provided that information even on their own site. We recommend contacting them directly, they should be able to provide you with that information. You can reach them here: https://guarddog-security.com/contact-us
Per TSA's website: "Generally, body armor is allowed in carry-on or checked bags. Please note however that even if an item is generally allowed, our officers make the final decision on whether an item is allowed through the checkpoint."
It should be washable by emptying all contents (including ballistic panel) and washing in a pillowcase.
They are vents and they will allow water inside the backpack.