Switch advice please

Hello I am looking at aquiring some switches to upgrade a large web site front and backend switching network. I am looking at cisco and HP switches at the moment and would like to hear peoples opinions on them or recommendations for any others. Some of the switches I am looking at are 24 and 48 Port GB (copper) switches and 48 and 24 port 10/100 with GB feed's. (one or two feeds) Also if anyone makes a small (like 8 port) GB switch with GB that routes fast enough to act as a gateway from Gb fiber drop to copper GB feed to other switches. Most of the small switches seem underpowered for such a task. Or am I wrong in this? Thanks so much! Nicole