I am looking for a solution for my students who all have Chromebooks (which are locked down).
Their opportunities will be greatly expanded if they had access to Windows-based software (Blender, Unreal Engine, 3D slicing software, etc.,).
I have access to a couple desktop machines that I could host virtual boxes on if there was some way for them to remote into them through a web browser.
Is that something that is possible, and where would I get the information to get started hosting something like that?
If not, are there any alternative solutions that do not require a paid subscription?
I would recommend that you bring in someone with experience instead of trying to wing it. It sounds like you are trying to bypass your IT department which is never a good idea. Talk to the people who control the Chromebooks.
What you are looking for is virtual desktop. It will cost money but it is worth it in the end. I would highly recommend that you take a look at Azure virtual desktop or related services. It is all cloud based and it is likely what you are after.
If
Sounds like OP is a teacher at a school. Schools very seldom have It departments, even in this day and age…