We don't have an overly complex setup, just some automations along the way to make things easier the long way. Sure, it's a bit more complicated than manually installing a server, but learning how to use terraform and automating patching/backups etc isn't rocket science.

Anyone with some knowledge of Linux/Programming shouldn't struggle setting this up within a few days. And it adds knowledge to the company that's very valuable.

With Gitlab, as with most software, restarting it regularly outside of office hours is the best way to ensure a stable service. Also something SaaS can't do, as they never know when their customers need the software.