Hello Steven,
you can install our package fro gluu CE not only on a VM also in a real server or you can use our docker version:
https://www.gluu.org/docs-docker-edition/admin-guide/installation/
https://gluu.org/docs/deployment/ubuntu/
https://gluu.org/docs/deployment/centos/
or if you want in a cluster way:
https://gluu.org/docs/cluster/
Adrian.-