Clients cant download my files, whats the point of this app?

I signed up for GoogleDrive bc I needed to send large files to clients online. I was never warned that they would need to have a Gmail account to do so. Then the clients who have Gmail accounts cant download my files off my GoogleDrive links. Ive gone thru each folder & changed the settings to EVERYONE has link access to "share, edit, delete," & they still cant download my files! There is no troubleshooting links I can find online that goes beyond changing the Link sharing to ON. So frustrating, Ive about had it with the embarrassment! Thankfully my clients are understanding, as I could have very well lost them over this inconvenience.

Wrain14 about Google Drive, v4.2018.032