It’s also possible to configure Linux to automatically pause a Virtualbox VM when the window is not in focus so Windows doesn’t keep burning CPU cycles when not actually in use.

I’ve tried various methods to run a couple Windows programs I use occasionally and most reliable method I’ve found (without buying a commercial package like Crossover) is a VM. With a decent multi-core processor and enough memory the only downside I’ve found is it makes my laptop run warm.

Raspberry Pi OS is based on Debian. You should be able to do what you’re describing and more by enabling SSH even without changing the OS.

Assuming it’s a Pi 3, Wireguard will work on it, as will Syncthing (useful if you add an SSD) but the interface bandwidth is limited so it can be a bit slow. That may not be too much of a problem though. My cable Internet’s upload speed is limited to 20Mbps, and despite the limited bandwidth both Wireguard and Syncthing are surprisingly useful.