Maybe it sounded a bit simplistic in the description, but running VMs /servers in the cloud/datacenter with CICD pipelines, VM patching, testing, the whole nine yards, etc is not that extreme, difficult, or ridiculous as most of us think it is (e.g. comparing it with making your own flour or growing your own coffee).

There are plenty of professionals doing it this way. Agreed that one machine would not be enough for all that, and building it will take more time, but it has its own advantages of being in control.

Curious to hear your opinion on this if you like to share.