switching to networking.

I am a 32 yr male and not from IT. I have 10 yr experience working as a Executive Asst. Now, I want to get into HW networking. I know too less about the certifications. I cannot proceed without guidance. At this age i cant go without an income so very soon i have switched into voice based technical support job. Parallely i intend to gain knowledge/certifications in networking. I need advice from u seniors as to which certification will help me get my first break and what would be the subsequent series of certifications that i should look forward to.
regards