As far as I know it should work if the server's default directory for new databases is not the on the same drive that cannot be accessed anymore. Personally this would be the first approach that I would try. If for some reason it wouldn't work (or if the default directory is on the same drive that cannot be accessed anymore) I would use trace flag 3608. Take into consideration that I've seen articles that claim that you do need both (trace flag 3608 and minimal configuration), other articles that claim that you only need the trace flag and some articles and presentation that claim that minimal configuration is all that is needed. Because of that I guess that each one of those options will work. I also suggest that you'll read the article that GilaMonster wrote and referenced in the thread ( https://www.simple-talk.com/sql/backup-and-recovery/the-sql-server-instance-that-will-not-start/%5B/url%5D) . Her articles are great source of learning materiel.

Adi